In today's day and age, a lot of people are in need. Not only are we going through a global pandemic where many individuals are struggling, but there are those all over the world who are in need of basic life necessities. Sometimes, we're so wrapped up in our own lives and our own worlds that we forget there are those who are struggling with bigger problems.
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People Are Making 'Blessing Bags' To Help Those In Need
According to studies, the amount of homeless people in the United States is staggering.
Unsplash | Jonathan Kho
As of January 2018, 552,830 people were counted as homeless in the United States. Of those individuals, 35% were unsheltered. Therefore, they struggle to obtain basic things they may need.
There are even more individuals in the United States who live below the poverty line.
Unsplash | John Moeses Bauan
In 2018, 38.1 million people lived in poverty in the United States. This showcases that there are more people struggling than we could ever imagine in terms of financial needs.
Many people find ways to contribute and give back to those in need by volunteering time and donating money.
Unsplash | Kelly Sikkema
Across the country, people continue to volunteer at shelters and donate to organizations to help those in need. However, with COVID-19 restrictions, many cannot go out and give their time as they once could.
A trend has taken over Facebook where people have found a way to give back in the best way possible.
Unsplash | Phu Dinh
People have been sharing what they're calling "blessing bags" that have a bunch of things that many individuals who are homeless or living in poverty may need.
Originally shared by the Facebook page, Love What Matters, in 2015, the bag contains some pretty inexpensive but important things.
The photo was originally taken by Amy Verder and according to the Facebook caption, a "blessing bag" is the following:
"This is what me and my daughter have started doing.... We are keeping a 'Blessing bag' in our car in case we find someone in need."
The bag is made up of everyday basic needs such as socks, snacks, and other personal items.
Unsplash | Les Triconautes
"You can make these up with items from the Dollar Tree such as gloves, thermal socks, beef sticks, crackers, candy bars, toothpaste, toothbrush, wipes, deodorant, snacks and other items that may help someone who is homeless or in a bad way," the post said.
People online have said the bags are an easy to help if you end up driving by someone who needs a helping hand.
Facebook
People online could not get over how wonderful of an idea this is. Many want to go grab things to make it for themselves and put it in their own cars.
Others say this is something they've always wanted to do.
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Many even shared advice on how to add to this bag and said that they can't wait to make their own and put it in their car for when they can give someone a "blessing" themselves.
Since the idea was originally shared on Facebook, it has become a regular initiative for community organizations.
Thousands of churches, school groups, and volunteers now make blessing bags regularly. This simple idea really took off!
Making your own blessing bag is pretty easy.
Unsplash | Austin Kehmeier
All you need to do is stop by a store, maybe a Dollar Tree/Dollar General, and pick up things such as gloves, socks, a toothbrush, snacks, and anything else you think individuals may need when going through a hard time.
This is incredible and we love this idea!
